Fieldwork and community placements
About the stream
What is Social Work & Public Policy?
Social work and public policy programmes examine social development, community systems, welfare, rights, governance and public programmes. Students learn research, field practice, programme planning and advocacy.
Explore your optionsUndergraduate · Postgraduate · Diploma · Doctoral · Professional pathways
Course directory
Programs Offered in Social Work & Public Policy
Programme names and availability vary by university, campus and academic session. Explore common course pathways below.
- BSW
- BA Social Work
- BA Public Policy (where offered)
- MSW
- MA Development Studies
- MA Public Policy
- MA Rural Development
- MA Social Entrepreneurship
- Ph.D. in Social Work / Policy
- Diploma in NGO Management / Community Development
Learning experience
Key Features of Social Work & Public Policy Programs
Participatory research and case studies
Policy analysis and programme evaluation
Ethics, inclusion and rights-based practice
Admission guide
Admission Eligibility
These are broad entry patterns, not a substitute for the current prospectus. Final eligibility is set by the university and, where applicable, the statutory regulator or professional council.
- BSW / BA: generally Class 12 from a recognised board.
- MSW / MA: usually a bachelor's degree; some institutions accept graduates from any discipline.
- Research programmes: relevant postgraduate qualification and institution-specific selection criteria.
Future pathways
Career Scope After Social Work & Public Policy
✓NGOs and community development organisations
✓CSR and sustainability programmes
✓Public health and social welfare projects
✓Research, monitoring and evaluation
✓Policy analysis and programme coordination
✓International development organisations
Career outcomes depend on the chosen qualification, practical skills, experience, location, recruitment requirements and any mandatory professional registration.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a social work degree to work in an NGO?
Not for every role, but a social work or development qualification can be useful for specialised field, programme and casework positions.
Does social work include field training?
Many programmes include supervised fieldwork, community engagement or internships as part of the curriculum.
What is public policy?
Public policy studies how governments and institutions design, implement and evaluate decisions and programmes affecting society.
Plan your next step with confidence